We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again; vacuum tubes add character to any audio setup. They add the warmth and depth to the sound that cannot be replicated by any solid-state device. But if you’re still uneasy about going the ‘tube’ way, then this amp’s for you. Japanese designer Koichi Futatsumata developed this hybrid amplifier for Elekit. The power amplifier stage of the amp is built on semiconductors or solid state devices while the character comes from the vacuum tubes in the tone control stage. Two 10W channels for the output give ample punch to a decent pair of speakers with a frequency range of 5 to 50,000 Hz. A mini jack on the side of the amp lets you connect your portable players. No word on pricing yet but it would certainly be worth it. $TBA.